When clearing out clutter, downsizing, or replacing old belongings, many people default to simply throwing items away. However, donating unwanted items is a far more sustainable and community-friendly option. Instead of contributing to landfill waste, donating allows gently used furniture, clothing, electronics, and household goods to benefit those in need.
Kelowna has several donation centers and charities that accept a wide range of items, from clothing and furniture to books and small appliances. By donating, you not only help local families and individuals but also support sustainability efforts by keeping reusable goods out of the Glenmore Landfill.
In this guide, we’ll highlight five of the best places in Kelowna where you can donate your unwanted items and make a difference. Whether you’re looking to support local charities, environmental causes, or community programs, these organizations will ensure your donations go to those who need them most.
1. Kelowna Gospel Mission Thrift Store
The Kelowna Gospel Mission Thrift Store plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable individuals in the community. The thrift store accepts donations of gently used clothing, household items, and furniture. Proceeds from sales directly fund programs that provide food, shelter, and job training for people experiencing homelessness.
What You Can Donate:
- Clothing (men’s, women’s, and children’s)
- Furniture (couches, tables, chairs, dressers)
- Small appliances and electronics
- Household goods and decor
- Footwear and accessories
Why Donate Here?
By donating to the Kelowna Gospel Mission Thrift Store, you directly support initiatives that help individuals regain stability and independence. Plus, you’re ensuring that usable items find a new home instead of ending up in the landfill.
2. Salvation Army Thrift Store
The Salvation Army Thrift Store is another excellent place to donate your unwanted items in Kelowna. The organization provides essential services to the community, including emergency relief, housing support, and job training. Donated goods are sold at affordable prices to support these charitable programs.
What You Can Donate:
- Clothing, shoes, and accessories
- Home goods and kitchenware
- Electronics (TVs, radios, small appliances)
- Furniture (must be in good condition)
- Toys, books, and games
Why Donate Here?
The Salvation Army ensures that your donations not only help local residents find affordable essentials but also generate funds for community programs. Plus, their network makes it easy for your donated items to reach families in need.
3. Habitat for Humanity ReStore Kelowna
If you have large household items, furniture, or building materials, the Habitat for Humanity ReStore is an excellent donation choice. This non-profit home improvement store resells donated goods to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity’s affordable housing projects.
What You Can Donate:
- Gently used furniture (tables, chairs, cabinets, dressers)
- Appliances (fridges, ovens, washing machines)
- Building materials (tiles, flooring, doors, windows)
- Lighting fixtures, sinks, and vanities
- Tools and hardware
Why Donate Here?
Your donation helps fund housing construction projects for families in need while promoting sustainability by repurposing home materials. It’s a win-win for the environment and the community!
4. Mamas for Mamas
For those looking to donate baby items, children’s clothing, and family essentials, Mamas for Mamas is a fantastic local organization in Kelowna. This charity supports low-income mothers and families by providing necessities and support services.
What You Can Donate:
- Baby clothes and maternity wear
- Cribs, strollers, and car seats
- Baby formula, diapers, and toiletries
- Toys and books
- Household essentials for struggling families
Why Donate Here?
Mamas for Mamas ensures that struggling mothers receive the essentials they need to care for their children. If you have gently used baby or maternity items, donating them here can make a significant difference in a family’s life.
5. Okanagan Regional Library – Book Donations
If you have books, DVDs, or educational materials, consider donating them to the Okanagan Regional Library. Many local libraries accept book donations to support literacy programs or stock their community shelves.
What You Can Donate:
- Gently used books (fiction, non-fiction, children’s books)
- Educational materials and textbooks
- CDs and DVDs
- Audiobooks
Why Donate Here?
By donating books, you help promote literacy in Kelowna while reducing paper waste. Many donated books are resold at library fundraisers, with proceeds going towards library programs and services.
Conclusion
Donating unwanted items is a simple yet impactful way to support the community and reduce landfill waste. Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, or replacing old belongings, consider giving your items a second life by donating to one of Kelowna’s many charitable organizations. From supporting low-income families to funding affordable housing projects, your donations can make a meaningful difference.
Instead of sending usable goods to the Glenmore Landfill, take a moment to drop them off at one of these trusted donation centers. Together, we can reduce waste, promote sustainability, and support those in need in Kelowna.Do you have items that need to be removed but aren’t sure where to donate them? Kelowna Junk Removal Ltd. can help! We offer eco-friendly junk removal and can sort items for donation, recycling, or proper disposal.